We've recently purchased AIS for our simrad NX 40 chart plotter. Whilst the chart plotter is AIS compatible the connection from AIS to the chart plotter is not. On speaking with Simrad they no longer manufacture the bespoke connection lead/fitting to allow the AIS to be plugged into the NX40.

Can anyone help? Does anyone know where a bespoke fitting from AIS lead into NX 40 chart plotter can be obtained? Or any other cost effective solution?

We're currently being advied to purchase another chart plotter with an AIS compatible adaptor which seems excessive.

This is a common problem. The Major suppliers think we all have deep pockets - "it's no problem, just upgrade"

You can make your own cable, even without the correct plug, especially if you don't take the unit out of the boat. I cannot remember if the Connector on this plotter are pins or sockets. Either way, there are only 2 wires required for the AIS connection- pin 3 is (white) + NMEA in and Pin 1 (Black) or sheild. The AIS NMEA - is not used. If it's a pin, you can carefully solder the cable on directly. If it's a socket, put a pin on the cables and plug them in. Its not fantastic, but it works. The correct plugs seem to be impossible to get...